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Tribal scepticism stalls Libyan politics

Deficiency of trust in untested and unfamiliar Libyan leadership is proving to be an obstacle.

02 Oct 2011 17:05 GMT

In the month since Tripoli fell to fighters allied with the National Transitional Council, Libya's new politicians have failed to appoint a new cabinet that better represents the newly freed areas of the country.

One sticking point is said to be the important ministry of defence, but Libya's various tribes are also sceptical of entrusting power to an untested and unfamiliar authority. Few want to give up their weapons, as the NTC has demanded, until they are sure.

Meanwhile, Islamists interested in entering politics say they are being unfairly painted as extremists by more liberal groups.